Actually I went the redneck way and used two fishing rod blanks! But anything that will get in those holes will work. I believe that 5/16 rod is big enough. Just make sure you give the cam a few good spins to get the lifters up in those cups. If you try to put the rods in and they seem to get stuck then spin the cam a little more to get the lifter up and out of the way. Once those rods are in then you can bang around all you want and take your time getting the cam out and in, those lifters are staying in place. If you need more help PM me and I will send you my number and you can call for help.